This dreamy cake combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut into a moist and delicious dessert. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the crushed pineapple (including the juice), beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Topping: While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut.
- Add Topping: Once the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven. Immediately pour the coconut topping evenly over the hot cake.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely before cutting and serving. The topping will set as it cools.
Optional additions:
- Add a layer of cream cheese frosting after the cake has cooled.
- Toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the topping for a richer flavor.
- Substitute pineapple juice for the milk in the topping for a more intense pineapple flavor.
- Add chopped macadamia nuts to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake!